Considerations

All dogs are a lifelong commitment and it is important that careful thought and consideration is given before embarking on buying one. Matters of resolution surrounding issues such as damage to the home, allergies, commitments, disruption to work, children, family, other pets, holidays, ill health, insurance and a costly expense incurred throughout the dogs life are just some to consider and account for.

* It is always preferable that a prospective owner has had prior ownership of a hound or active breed and is accustomed to how they generally behave and handle. 

* The Porcelaine requires a good level of exercise, making country living ideal.

* They are not suitable for apartment living.

* These dogs are not suitable to be left at home or kept in kennels for prolonged periods.

* If you have other pets, it may in some cases be advised not to consider this breed. Always seek advice from the breeder.

* There have  been 2 cases of 'happy tail' reported. This is where the skin on the tip of the tail splits open when the tail is wagging against a hard surface or even against the agile dog itself. The dog is literally so excited that it doesn't feel the damage being done. If the sensitive area is repeatedly hit, making it difficult to heal then it may be necessary to have the tail tip docked by a vet.

* The Porcelaine are also known as the singing hounds, but what can be deemed as music to one person is invariably a noise nuisance to another. Being left or in distress can warrant more than a few choruses, giving rise to comments of reference to  "The hound of the Baskervilles" at best or complaints and rehoming at worst.

* These hounds have short coats and thin coats, so it is important that they are kept away from drafts and are given a good quality coat to wear in cold and very wet weather if they are out for a prolonged or inactive time. 

* We do not actively work the breed but they are fundamentally a hound and therefore it is their natural instinct to be prone to run off and hunt. Extreme caution should be adhered to, taking into account farm animals, deer, rabbits, hares, fowl and traffic in particular.

* There are no known problems with the breed. However, generally long eared hounds may encounter typical problems such as ear infections,  hunting injuries or embedded debris picked up ( mainly from thorny shrubs and grass seeds ).
 
* If you plan to use your hound to drag hunt for example, make sure that you have all the relevant permission, licences and act in a responsible and legal manner.

* Consider hidden dangers that can have a harmful effect on your dogs health which they inhabit and exercise in. This can include passive smoking, fossil fuel fumes, contaminated water, toxic plants etc.

*We strongly advise that you fully insure your Porcelaine including third party cover. Check your policy carefully. A cheap policy is not always cost effective and likewise the most costly policy isn't always the most comprehensive.